The Ningbo Institute of Technology was recently ranked first among Chinas independent colleges again in 2014. The Top Ten Chinese Independent Colleges Ranking in 2014 was released as part of a nationwide Chinese Universities Evaluation. Wu Shulian, an expert in the field of Chinese university evaluation, points out how difficult it is to receive a top ranking among the countrys high-level independent colleges.

NIT won the first place in compressive strength, teachers innovation, teachers overall performance. The ranking method for independent Chinese colleges requires that they meet at least three of the following four criteria: (1) It must rank in the top 25 of all independent colleges for total number of bachelor degrees awarded. (2) It must rank in the ;top 25 in programs that enhance the innovativeness of teachers. (3) It must rank in the ;top 25 in terms of the overall academic performance of its teachers. (4) It must have programs in place that cultivate masters degree graduates in cooperation with other universities.